Washington D.C - Mayor Vincent C. Gray today expressed condolences and praised the historic achievements of former South African President Nelson Mandela upon learning of his passing at the age of 95. South African President Jacob Zuma announced Mandela’s death, according to multiple news outlets, late in the evening local time on December 5.
Mr. Mandela became South Africa’s first democratically elected president in 1994, after serving 27 years as a political prisoner. An attorney by profession, President Mandela is remembered for his long struggle to end the South African system of segregation known as apartheid and the government repression that attended it. The Nobel Peace Prize recipient leaves behind a resilient legacy and a reputation for uncompromising dedication to freedom, democracy and multiculturalism.
“I extend my deepest sympathies to the family of President Mandela and the nation of South Africa,” said Mayor Gray. “His astute diplomacy, his tireless dedication to justice and his deep commitment to non-violent resistance and reconciliation laid the foundation for countless leaders worldwide. Nelson Mandela’s profound legacy will forever inspire all who fight for human rights and peace around the globe.”
While President of the African National Congress, Mandela’s ability to work with opposing parties earned him the Nobel in 1993. His leadership led to the Freedom Charter, which set the stage for South Africa’s modern constitution establishing a multi-racial democracy where all people could govern.
Ngozi Nmezi, Director of the Mayor’s Office on African Affairs (OAA), echoed Mayor Gray’s sentiments, “The people of South Africa, Africans on the continent and people around the world have lost the ultimate public servant, and advocate for democracy. Mandela truly exemplified transformational leadership; he awakened minds to move toward racial equality in a country while under extreme duress. The reality that Mandela has created will endure through the ages.”
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